Thread: Immigration may play role in Vista election

http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2006..._178_14_06.txt

Immigration may play role in Vista election

By: CRAIG TENBROECK - Staff Writer

VISTA ---- With illegal immigration poised to become a central issue in the November election, several mayoral and City Council candidates wasted no time staking out their positions, in comments to the North County Times and in candidate statements released by the city clerk on Monday.

"I'm tired of hearing that nothing is wrong," mayoral candidate George Mantor, 58, wrote in his candidate statement, which will appear in the county's voter information guide that will be published before the Nov. 7 election. "I see it in the graffiti that winds up scrawled on anything with a surface, and in the angry faces of pro-illegal immigrant groups who insist that their rights somehow trump those of property owners, business owners and legal residents."

Podiatrist and council candidate Michael Dinnel, 59, listed his opposition to illegal immigration in his candidate statement and promised to "work hard for all members of our community to resolve this problem."


Five candidates have entered the race for two council seats, and three others want the mayor's job. The winners will serve four-year terms.

Latino activist and council candidate Tina Jillings said Monday that illegal immigration would undoubtedly be a "hot issue" for some candidates, but it won't top her agenda.

Although there's a need for federal immigration reform, she said, cities shouldn't get involved and risk violating human rights.

"Vista is a city divided," her candidate statement reads. "We are in need of elected representatives who understand the needs of the entire community and who are capable of reaching out to all segments of our diverse city."

In recent months, immigration has become a polarizing topic in this city of 94,000, which is approximately 41 percent Latino. Activists on both sides of the issue have held frequent, sometimes confrontational rallies at a makeshift pick-up site for day laborers. On May 1, a pro-immigration celebration drew a large crowd to downtown's Wildwood Park, before growing unruly hours later as yelling protesters squared off against sheriff's deputies in riot gear.

As of Aug. 1, about a third of Vista residents were registered voters.

Mayor Morris Vance, 66, said last week that he expects immigration to be a big issue this fall, but added that local governments have limited options to address it.

"We approached the one aspect of it that we could, and I think we've done a good job with that," Vance said, referring to the council's recently adopted ordinance that regulates the hiring of day laborers.

The controversial law, which requires anyone who hires workers off the street to first register with the city, was supported by anti-illegal immigration activists and lambasted by migrant-rights advocates. It is being challenged in federal court by California Rural Legal Assistance Inc. and the American Civil Liberties Union of San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Jillings has said she would work to take the ordinance off the books.

Councilwoman Judy Ritter, 62, who is seeking a third term, said Monday that immigration wasn't an issue in previous council elections, but recently, "people are noticing it more."

Her statement reads: "Judy Ritter strongly supports our outstanding Sheriff's campaign to eliminate youth gang crime and violence. Judy supports a no-tolerance policy regardless of immigration status."

Not all the candidates are eager to join the immigration debate.

"I think there are far more important things to deal with," incumbent Councilman Bob Campbell, 67, said on Monday. "I don't plan to get into a fight with anybody over illegal immigration issues on a local level. I will be glad to respond to them, however, if issues come up during the campaign."

Council candidate Nick Ashcraft, a city planning commissioner, said Monday that he opposes illegal immigration, but won't make it his centerpiece issue.

"My campaign is based on fiscal responsibility more than anything," said Ashcraft, 56.

Mayoral candidate Mark Anthony, 49, did not file an official statement, but said Monday that he supports community discussions to address the impacts of illegal immigration.

"It's a very complicated issue, obviously," he said.

Contact staff writer Craig TenBroeck at (760) 631-6621 or ctenbroeck@nctimes.com.

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Comments On This Story

Note: Comments reflect the views of readers and not necessarily those of the North County Times or its staff.
Mike wrote on August 14, 2006 11:24 PM:"Of course immigration will be and should be a major topic. Finally people are getting sick and tired of all the illegals around Vista and Oceanside. Drive down south Santa Fe and see all the illegals standing around. Now they are moving over to Melrose and North Santa Fe and pissing and crapping in the bush's. Its time to fight back!"

Vista resident wrote on August 14, 2006 11:45 PM:"Sounds like a bunch of nuts including the ones seeking re-election. "

SgtBoswell wrote on August 15, 2006 3:37 AM:"My decision is easy: The incumbents who have shown positive leadership qualities with positive results or Jillings, a Pro Criminal, One Issue Candidate with a negative agenda. "

To Mark Anthony wrote on August 15, 2006 6:49 AM:"What's so "complicated" about "Illegal" Immigration?"

Mike the Marine wrote on August 15, 2006 6:55 AM:"And then there are some candidates that are honest and some that are dodging a hot issue. Who would elect anyone who was afraid to make a stand? Isn't this why were are in trouble with illegal immigration? There of too many politicians who have ignored the problem to avoid personal risk. They are the people who shouldn't hold pubic office."

Harry wrote on August 15, 2006 7:25 AM:"If the soon to be, Yankee minority in Vista uses its current political power to abuse and not to promote community--and to make racist immigration policy its cause----well wait a few years--Talk about "what goes around comes around". I would normally vote based on a range of progressive issues, but if this is to be a referendum on immigration I will vote for the Si Se Pueda candidates. "

Tim wrote on August 15, 2006 8:07 AM:"Why can't we focus on the real issues of this city!!! Are we too caught up in the argument of illegal immigration that we can't turn off street lights in Shadowridge or close some lingerie shops??? What is happening to this city!"

Gary in Murrieta wrote on August 15, 2006 8:29 AM:"“Illegal alien votes undermine our democracy. Just remember, if you are an illegal alien and get caught fraudulently registering to vote, YOU WILL BE DEPORTED! This is one of the few laws that our government takes seriously and does enforce. If you are deported for fraudulently registering to vote, you will never again be allowed to enter the united States LEGALLY! So even though it looks easy to do, when you are at the DMV getting you fraudulent drivers license, THINK AGAIN!"

TO ALL ILLEGAL ALIENS TEMPTED TO VOTE..... wrote on August 15, 2006 8:31 AM:"“Illegal alien votes undermine our democracy. Just remember, if you are an illegal alien and get caught fraudulently registering to vote, YOU WILL BE DEPORTED! This is one of the few laws that our government takes seriously and does enforce. If you are deported for fraudulently registering to vote, you will never again be allowed to enter the united States LEGALLY! So even though it looks easy to do, when you are at the DMV getting you fraudulent drivers license, THINK AGAIN!"

how do they do that? wrote on August 15, 2006 8:42 AM:"How do illegal aliens vote????Permanent Legal Residents, the ones that did it all the legal way because they love this country and want to stay, are not allowed to vote (pay taxes yes.....) Maybe if I take some Spanish classes I can ask the illegal residents how they do that. Maybe we should become all illegal, seems they have more rights than legal residents"

Daren wrote on August 15, 2006 8:47 AM:"I hope the citizens make a two-column list. Pro-criminal candidates on one side and anti-illegal candidates on the other side. Then simply tear off the pro-criminal aide and throw it away. Make your choice only from the candidates willing to stop the criminal illegals."

Vista Granny wrote on August 15, 2006 9:59 AM:"41% of Vista residents are hispanic? They certainly aren't ALL illegal. Maybe we should get those who are legal to register and vote. Perhaps we need a different city council and mayor. We certainly don't need Judy Ritter any more. This is one heartless, hard woman. Always shouting "law and order". Her answer to everything is "make it illegal and sic the sheriff on them." I think we should ask the candidates questions about money -- our money. Why does it cost so much to live in Vista when we have an old school house for a city hall, no police of our own, and a "downtown" which is still a total loser despite the theaters and restaurants nearby? Where does our property tax money go? I would like to see a pie chart and compare it to the budgets of Oceanside and San Marcos. Vista needs to clean out the dead wood."

Same Problem In Escondido wrote on August 15, 2006 10:21 AM:"Interesting that the pro-illegal immigrant NCT would even recognize that the issue will impact Novemeber's election! It sure will be the central focus in Mexcondido! We are tired of paying for the education, the health care and social services for illegals. We need a change of leadership and candidates who are willing to take a stand on this issue, provide solutions and protect the taxpayer against the drain on our resources. Vote Pfeiler OUT! No more high density, low income, ugly row houses! No more tattoo & piercing parlors, liquor stores, thrift stores, and Mexican markets. No more gangs, graffiti, ESL programs! No more renting to illegals! No bonds pass until the illegal immigration fiasco is solved!"

Kenbone wrote on August 15, 2006 11:00 AM:"Sure, local government is limited, BUT they can make themselves heard. Keep up a relentless barrage of messages to Sacramento and Washington about how we've had it with the illegals. Keep passing laws to address the problem, even if they're knocked down in the courts. Keep up the message: OUT WITH THE ILLEGALS!"

About Time wrote on August 15, 2006 1:00 PM:"Its about time the illegal "criminal" issue opens up with campaign debates and not sweeped under the carpet. Hopefully, Oceanside and Escondido will do the same. Its such a huge city problem."

To How do you do that? wrote on August 15, 2006 2:04 PM:"When you get your drivers license renewed; they give you the option to register to vote. With fake documents in hand and the typical government bureaucracy; it is very easy to register to vote. After all what's one more lie: "Are you a Legal United States Citizen?" Also with renewals done by mail; who really checks? There was a story online yesterday, about an entire Brazilian family that was deported because the parents illegally registered to vote."

Illegal Voting wrote on August 15, 2006 2:55 PM:"If the illegals can vote, they we can go to the graveyard and dig up a few more names to vote too! Hey I just had an idea, if the ones get elected we don't want in, we can do what the Democrats in Florida tried to do, recount, recount and recount until you get it the way you want it. I am sure its what the illegals and the ACLU will demand we do! Man I can see it now, every election is going to cost the taxpayers millions, but will the illegals and ACLU care? No way they don't have to pay a dime and they will use it to punish the American Citizens. "

tooooooodles wrote on August 15, 2006 3:15 PM:"Hey Jillings...the only reason Vista is a divided city is because of racists like YOU!!!!!!!! GO AWAY!!!!!!!"

David wrote on August 15, 2006 4:26 PM:"i can't say for Vista, but it will have a major impact on how I vote in Oceanside on all issues whether local, state, or federal."

Nick wrote on August 15, 2006 4:30 PM:"Why do people continue think that America should change it's laws and allow illegal immigration. We need to enforce the laws we have and send those here illegally back home. We are not the problem, MEXICO is the problem. They have the ability to be a thriving democracy just like the U.S.A., those in power choose otherwise. Maybe if Tina Jillings really cared, she would lead all of those here illegally from Mexico back home and help their people to rise up against the tryanny of the Drug Cartels and Corrupt Politicians. Take back the Country they have so much pride for (if you march down American streets waving Mexican flags, I'm pretty sure you love Mexico more than the USA), and create an economy that supports it's people so they have no need to leave. Let them take vacations to other countries just like the Canadians and Americans do. With America and Canada as it's neigbors and partners (Thanks to President Bush and The Security & Prosperity Partnership of Noth America), I'm pretty confident that Mexico can thrive. The problem can only be solved by getting to the root of it and fixing it at it's source, and that happens to be south of the border."

to Vista Granny wrote on August 15, 2006 4:52 PM:"If you're smart enough to comment in these columns, you're smart enough to get the information you want. Or, do you just want someone else to get it for you? You want the illegals left alone, but you want your taxes accounted for? Make up your mind! Vista's council and Mayor are the only ones in the county worth a damn right now, and by their new "employer" law, the Deadwood is on its way out of town! No amnesty, secure the border, punish the offenders, Legal Day Laborers out of our faces. Get a clue Granny!"

American-Irish Resident wrote on August 15, 2006 4:52 PM:"I do not live in the Tri-City area. Will you folks vote for the Hospital Of Mexico Including Everybody Spanish? It could be named using the acronym HOMIES. I am happy my property tax is not in the North County Tri-City district. Once you have your HOMIES hospital, everybody in Mexico will have a map to that hospital. You should pass a second financing bill immediately as Mex-City will be on your HOMIES door knocking like crazy people. Pay Tri-City and pay without hesitation."

To Tim wrote on August 15, 2006 7:18 PM:" Yeah, Tim if these bozos focused on the issues that are dragging Vista to the days of Mississippi they would have to face reality, drugs, gangs, white collar crime, illiteracy, high drop-out rate and racism. So what is the issue going to be? ILLIGAL IMIGRATION!!!! THIS IS WHAT RED NECKS DO. "

Same problem in Penasquitos wrote on August 15, 2006 7:19 PM:"Mike you said it just right. Im sick of them pissing and crapping all over the place. I work at Pomerado hospital and live in Penasquitos. I recently spoke to a Firefighter who works at the local fire station. He said often times they have to hike ( to the Migrant Encampments ) in the canyon parallel to the 56 freeway at Carmel Mtn Rd and Penasquitos BVLD to assist them when they call for medical problems. The last few times they had San Diego Police escort them down there. The last time they went down there 2 of the migrant workers pulled knives on them. Luckily San Diego PD was there and put them at gunpoint and arrested them. Knowing this I will never jog that trail again. This puts the people that live in this community in danger. You are right. These politicians need to grow a pair and stop backing down to the pro immigrant activist groups. The Canyon where there camp is is surrounded by thick heavy brush with million doloar homes at the top of both ends. If they start a major brush fire down there that gets out of control, Lots of homes wil lbe lost. There goes a waste of taxpayer money again. Of course they wil lnot pay for it. They will get off scott free, Not face criminal punishment. Maybe this will shut up those pro illegal activists. Maybe they can pay the bill for all the damage that their ILLEGAL friend causes. Oh and another thing, Property value of homes in The area where they hang out along the 56 has gone down a bit. I would not want to buy a place next to where they all loiter and wait. i would not want to look out my window every day and see all the trash they leave behind. I would not want my daughter to sand across the street 50 feet from where they wait every morining to catch the bus to go to elementry school. There is just a small portion of how frusterated I am with this issue. "

Latino activist and council candidate Tina Jillings said Monday that illegal immigration would undoubtedly be a "hot issue" for some candidates, but it won't top her agenda.

Although there's a need for federal immigration reform, she said, cities shouldn't get involved and risk violating human rights.

"Vista is a city divided," her candidate statement reads. "We are in need of elected representatives who understand the needs of the entire community and who are capable of reaching out to all segments of our diverse city."

Nice tap dance Ms. Jillings!